JOSHUA HELMS
COO, Physician Partners of America
Hometown: Fairbanks, Alaska
Alma mater: University of South Florida and University of Tampa
Joshua Helms’s life was forever changed when he saw the link between mental health and homelessness. “During college, I worked evenings and nights at a nonprofit health center,” he says. “I saw firsthand how limited the resources were after discharge for many of these patients and families who were living in poverty. I wanted to find a way to try and help.” Today, he is a member of Metropolitan Ministries’ board of directors and the organization’s vice chair of programs. “I’m very passionate about Metropolitan Ministries and their mission to alleviate suffering for those that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless,” Helms adds. “I am honored to have the privilege to serve on the board.” Helms also plays a role in alleviating the opioid crisis at Physician Partners of America, where physicians use interventional pain and minimally invasive spine procedures, rather than medication, to treat pain. “I wanted a career where I knew I could feel great about helping others,” he says. “Healthcare has afforded me that opportunity.”
What is your current occupation? Tell me a little bit about what you do in your position.
[As the] chief operating officer at Physician Partners of America, I oversee operations for 30 medical practices and nine ambulatory surgery centers across Florida, Texas and California. We focus on providing solutions to the opioid crisis through interventional pain and minimally invasive spine procedures.
How did you choose your profession?
I wanted a career where I knew I could feel great about helping others. Healthcare has afforded me that opportunity. I work for an organization that improves thousands of patient lives each month.
What nonprofits/charitable organizations are you involved with? Is there one in particular that you are most involved with (leadership roles, etc.)? Did you found your own organization?
I’m very passionate about Metropolitan Ministries and their mission to alleviate suffering for those that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. I am honored to have the privilege to serve on the board at Metropolitan Ministries.
Regarding the last question, why did you choose to become involved with that particular organization, or why did you choose to found your own?
During college, I worked evenings and nights at a nonprofit mental health center. I saw firsthand how limited the resources were after discharge for many of these patients and families who were living in poverty. I wanted to find a way to try and help.
Fill in the blank. When I’m not in the office, you can find me…
Spending time with my family, or otherwise riding my dirt bike, mountain bike or Harley.
Who was your first professional mentor?
I have had many mentors in my life. One of the first in my professional career was Dotty Bollinger, who taught me about servant leadership, building a strong culture and the importance of taking care of your employees.
Do you have a motto or philosophy you live by?
Every day is a job interview. Go out and give 100%.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and from whom did you receive it?
My father always instilled the message that, in life, attitude is everything.
What do you love most about Tampa?
Definitely how accessible it is to get out on the water. Every weekend can be a mini vacation, boating to an island or fishing [along] the Gandy.
What is the last book you read or your favorite book?
My favorite business book is Tribal Leadership by Dave Logan and John King.
Which app on your phone could you not live without, and why?
No question, Uber.
What is your dream vacation?
Cage diving with great white sharks in Australia is definitely on my bucket list.
